Chad Dunscombe, a dedicated father from Armstrong Creek, is balancing the demands of firefighting callouts with running a local Australian rules football club. His story highlights the selfless commitment of volunteers in regional Victoria.
Balancing Two Demanding Roles
Dunscombe, who serves as a firefighter with the Country Fire Authority (CFA), often responds to emergencies at a moment's notice. Simultaneously, he is the president of the Armstrong Creek Football Netball Club, a role that requires significant time and effort.
“It can be challenging to juggle both responsibilities, but I’m passionate about serving my community in any way I can,” Dunscombe said. “Whether it’s fighting fires or supporting the footy club, I want to make a difference.”
Community Support and Challenges
The Armstrong Creek community has rallied behind Dunscombe, recognising his contributions. However, the dual roles come with logistical hurdles, such as scheduling conflicts and the need for reliable backup at the club when fire callouts occur.
“We have a great team at the club who step up when I’m called away,” he added. “It’s a team effort, and I’m grateful for their support.”
The footy club has grown in recent years, attracting more players and families. Dunscombe’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering a welcoming environment.
Firefighting: A Family Tradition
Firefighting runs in Dunscombe’s family. His father was also a CFA volunteer, inspiring him to join the service. “It’s in my blood,” he said. “I remember going to the station with my dad as a kid. Now, I’m proud to carry on that tradition.”
His children are also involved, with his son already showing interest in both firefighting and footy. “They see me doing both, and I hope it teaches them the value of community service,” Dunscombe noted.
Future Goals
Looking ahead, Dunscombe aims to strengthen the footy club’s facilities and increase volunteer numbers at the CFA. He believes that community organisations thrive when people come together.
“We need more volunteers in both areas,” he said. “It’s rewarding work, and it brings people together. I’d encourage anyone to get involved.”
His story serves as an inspiration in Armstrong Creek, demonstrating that with passion and teamwork, individuals can make a significant impact in their community.
